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Criminalising homosexuality undermines Cotonou agreement

The European Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament firmly condemn the adoption of the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act in Nigeria and the Anti-Homosexuality Act in Uganda and ask that appropriate EU measures are taken.

The S&D Group considers that adopting these laws constitutes a grave threat to the universal rights to life, to freedom of expression, of association and assembly, and to freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.

S&D Euro MP Michael Cashman, who co-authored the resolution said:

"Sexual orientation and gender identity are matters which fall within the remit of individuals' right to privacy, as guaranteed by international law and national constitutions.

"The EU cannot remain silent and must show that it is serious about human rights. If the political dialogue fails, and the African Union refuses to take leadership, then the EU-Africa Summit on the 2-3 April must be an occasion for us to launch a suspension procedure against these two countries"

S&D Euro MP Derek Vaughan said:

"With today's resolution the European Parliament underlines that by signing these anti-homosexuality acts the governments of Uganda and Nigeria failed to fulfil an obligation on respect for human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law referred to in Article 9(2) of the Cotonou Agreement".

The S&D Group also calls for EU aid to be redirected, rather than suspended, and for targeted sanctions, such as visa bans, to be considered.